A Meeting

[Nathanial K'cansce]

*Everyone who is an anyone goes to Coruscant at least once in their lifetime. Snack had been to the city-planet enough times to cover about ten other persons' visit to the planet. And each time, it had been mostly the same: a visit for "business deals" or to fight something or someone. His most recent one found himself fighting a reploid, which was able to beat Snack to a living pulp before Snack was able to gain the upper hand.

No, the Dark Lord was not planet side for a fight. Not this time. No, he was there purely for leisure.

The night's happenings found the Dark Lord at one of the thousands of small diners in one of the working class sections of the gigantic city. He was sitting alone in one of the booths, his cloak on, yet the hood around his shoulders, allowing his face to be seen by all. A few strands of hair draped themselves over his eyes as he tilted his head downwards, looking at the menu.

The choices looked very pleasing and appetizing, each one seeming very different. Yet, for some odd reason, Snack felt that each item on the menu was derived from the same thing.*

"Are you ready to order, sir?"

Not just yet, gimme a few more minutes.

"Of course, sir. Take your time."

Thank you.

*The serving droid rolled off to another table, probably having the same conversation it had had with Snack. He smirked an chuckled to himself, looking over the food stuffs on the menu once more.*

[Ki-Adi Kindo]

Kindo strolled casually into the unfamiliar restaurant, somewhere he randomly chose to enjoy a warm meal before heading back to his cozy quarters back the at the Greater Jedi Order's complex and calling it a night. Like most days, it had been an industrious one, full of little rest and long hours, but he took great pleasure in it nonetheless. He didn't see being a Jedi has just another job in the vast galaxy, but being one of these keepers of the peace meant everything to him. Every letter of the Jedi Code was engraved across his heart; it was something he lived by, and eventually would die by.

This particular diner's structure and crowds were inferior to the ever-popular Master Yog's Bar & Grill, but nevertheless appeared to be a nice place to sit down, take a load off, and have a delicious supper. He gazed in all directions of the building, hoping to locate a good seat, but as he looked around he observed someone sitting in a booth, eyes resting upon his menu, but didn't seem to have any company. Kindo, being one who loved meeting others, walked over towards the lonesome man. He stood in the way of the descending light from the lamps overhead, casting a shadow over the man's menu.

" Greetings friend, mind if I join you? "

[Nathanial K'cansce]

*Curiously glancing up at the person that stood at the edge of the booth, Snack blinked, then returned his attention to the menu.*

If that means the light will be restored so I can read the menu, then be my guest.

*He leaned his back against the soft cushion of the booth bench, placing his menu down on the table before him. Snack had never been one to dine with others, save for when he was a Jedi dining at Yog's B&G so long ago, and a few occasions at Rama's Corner. For the most part, those days of mingling had past. He kept to himself, and liked it quite well. Strangers always seemed to keep their distance from the Dark Lord, and for good reason.

Except this one. He studied this new man as he sat opposite him. The other seemed to be quite friendly and calm, with an inner peace that could be seen in the way he carried himself. Whatever he did and whoever he was, he was quiet content with the life he lead.*

Though you're brave to do so. Not many people will sit down and have dinner with a complete stranger.

*Snack's voice held no dark tones. It was best not to give anything away about himself too quickly.*

[Servant]

An older gentleman, looking to be in his late 50s, approached the table. Dressed in a dark suit and white gloves he produced a small bow to the two gentlemen sitting in the smoke filled resturant.

"Ah sorry to bother you this evening but my master would like to speak with you both. He says it is of importance." He could see thier reaction.

"I am not at liberty to discuss anything at this time, but a dinner is prepared elsewhere..."

He turned and walked to the door, opening it slightly. Outside sat a hoverlimo awaiting the choice of the two men.

[Ki-Adi Kindo]

Kindo didn't hesitate at all, sliding into the booth ahead of Snack. Picking up the menu that layed before him, he began scrolling down the long list of dinner choices, and though this particular restaurant's meals were quite different than was he was accustomed to, they seemed appetizing nonetheless. Besides, long hours of work always left him famished at the end of each day.

" Name's Ki Adi Kindo, and I'm not like most people. "

He said with a bright grin across his face. Just has soon has he finished his words when an elderly gentlemen appeared alongside their table, stating that someone else was requesting their immediate presence. The Jedi Knight raised a brow, his curiosity beckoning him to question the messenger.

" Two questions; how long will this take and why does this concern me? I'd be glad to meet your master and see what he wants, but I'd like to know the reason. "

He grew suspicous has the senior strolled over towards the exit and opened it, revealing a hoverlimo awaiting both him and the man sitting before him. He glared back at Snack, giving him the same inquisitive expression he gave the older gentleman.

[Nathanial K'cansce]

*All Snack could do was shrug at Ki-Adi, returning a slightly confused, but with a more emotionless face than the other had been able to produce.*

His questions are solid. Answer them, if you will, old man.

*Actually, Snack did not care. Of course he would have asked the same questions, or at the least, asked what was in it for him; what he would gain from this. But with someone else down, Snack could say he was not the only one fooled into a sucker trap.

Sure, Snack could have opened himself up to the Force and just probed the old man's weak mind, but something about the other guy... something about Ki-Adi Kindo shout to Snack that doing so would cause more ruckus than he wanted.*

[Servant]

The older gentleman merely tilted his head to the side. His orders were strict, but he would not dare tell his master he had failed. He opened the door further.

"I can promise all your concerns will be addressed in due time. However I am assured that this is of importance and you will be kindly rewarded for only your presence. Please sirs, time if of the essence..."

He stepped out onto the brightend streets of Courscant, opening the door to the hoverlimo, giving a slight motion with his arm.

[Ki-Adi Kindo]

The reason to has why someone requested his presence eluded the Jedi Knight. He hadn't planned beforehand to dine at this specific location, let alone this specific tavern. Though all he desired was to grab something good to eat for whatever reason it was, it appeared important that he meet this man who wished to see him. Not only was it common courtesy, but also has a Jedi it was his responsibility to tend to any problems anyone had, and he was more than willing to do so.

Though he appeared hesitant at first, his decision became evident when he rose from the table, and began making his way over toward the restaurant's exit, however he paused right before reaching the door.

Kindo turned and looked back at man he was sitting with, who had also been invited to this sudden meeting, and gave a slanted grin.

" Will you be coming along also? "

[Nathanial K'cansce]

*Lightly tossing the menu still in his hand onto the table, Snack rose to his full six foot three inch height as well. He nodded to Kindo an affirmative, and followed him through the diner to the exit. He glanced around before actually leaving, seeing his own reflection in a mirror near the doorway. His long dark hair covered most of his pale face, yet did not hinder his sight. His jet black and blood red cloak that draped around his body concealed his weapons, two lightsabers: one single, one double.

Snack shook his head, his face still emotionless in the mirror.*

The food better be good. I'm starving.

*He spoke, his brooding voice a tad darker than it was when he first spoke to Kindo.

The only question that now resided in Snack's mind was "why?" It was by chance that Snack had chosen that small diner, and he felt that it was the same reason for Kindo for entering. Well, the same reason other than what he stated previously.

He let out an inaudible sigh, leaving the mirror and the diner to where the hover-limo waited. At least whoever required his services had style.*

The price better be right as well...

[Starr]

The hover-limo made quick haste of the night lined traffic. Mere minutes passed before it came to a stop in a small landing area, north of Courscant's industrial section.

The elderly man was quick to retrieve the two men from inside. An opened door exposed the strangers to a large framed industrial stronghold buried deep within the bellows of Coursant's industrial neighborhood. Two guardsmen, accompanied by a slinder woman bearing a blaster greeted Snack and Kindo.

"Greetings, …I am Starr." She gave a slight bow, lowering her petite frame that almost exceed Dyzm’s height. Her long blonde hair hung slightly over her shoulders.

"My master has been expecting you, I am to extend a full welcome. " She then turned to the two guardsmen who stood at her side, "That will be all."

They scuttled away at the sound of her voice, leaving the two men alone with only the woman. She motioned toward the walkway.

"I trust your trip was well?"

[Ki-Adi Kindo]

His eyes jumped from corner to corner, up and down. After only a few seconds, it became very apparent to Kindo that the large structure was used for industrial purposes, made clear by the surrounding machinery. He himself had never been deep within Coruscant's manufacturing community before, so it was of no surprise when he continued studying the unfamiliar place.

" It was just fine thank you, but it was rather confusing not knowing where we were off to or why we were going there. "

The Jedi spoke with a kind, subtle tone. He kept his hands held behind his back. After a minute or two, he turned his attention back towards Starr. He couldn't help but give a quick glance at the blaster locked in place by her side, not to mention the two guards they saw moments ago. His suspicions grew.

[Starr]

Starr smiled at Kindo’s words, “Unfortunately the whole galaxy has ears...you must understand, only a precaution.” The trio made their way from the outside smog into a side door located about 30 meters from the landing pad.

Immediately a pleasant fragrance tickled onto their senses. The room they entered was five times larger than any of Courscant's downtown offices, and it took up only a fraction of a single floor. Nor was the room's size its only impressive feature. Priceless artwork adorned the walls, treasures that Snack recognized as priceless to a dozen cultures were left about as mere knick-knacks. Whoever it was obviously had impeccable--and expensive--tastes.

Flawlessly decorated, tasteful despite the uncountable wealth present, the room was perfect. It was like Starr, in fact. A bit too perfect.

[Nathanial K'cansce]

*The limo ride was quick, and the formal greeting between Kindo, Snack, and Starr was even quicker. He barely had time to mutter a 'hello' from the time it took to step from the hover-limo out in front of the industrial building/factory. Snack disregarded the two guards that were there, all be it for a short time, as he studied the industrial sector of the planet.

No, he had never visited, but he had heard great deals. That, it it didn't take a genius to figure out that without this, the city-planet would cease to function. Hell, maybe even half the galaxy would crumble down upon itself.

Kindo and Starr shared a few words, which Snack was only able to catch the tail end off. He crossed his arms in front of his chest, putting them into the opposite sleeves on his cloak, and studied Starr for a moment. As she turned to walk the two towards the door, he noted that her gait was fluid, but had an almost droid type style. He could not outright sense her to see if she was a droid, for he still had no idea who this Kindo fellow was. He was too kind to be a regular Coruscant citizen.

Upon entering the room, a delightful aroma filled his nostrils. Dinner! He thought... Snack took two deep breaths in through his nose, savoring the fine smell. Much nicer than the polluted air outside. He opened his eyes after his second whiff, and immediately took notice to the fine pieces of art that decorated the walls of the huge room.*

Impressive...

*Snack finally uttered. His feet found him near one of the walls, studying a piece of artwork. From the looks of the beautiful colors, mainly the rich greens and blue depicting an overview of a canopy of a jungle set at dusk, Snack thought it to be of Ithorian orient. He glanced around the room after studying the painting carefully to look at the other pieces of art quickly. The last piece of art he set his eyes on was Starr, whom was studying Snack.*

Your Master has a fine taste of art. Though for some reason, I don't believe he is a Chiss, or is he?

*The Chiss, or at least the famous ones, were known for having collections of priceless and rare art from many different cultures throughout the galaxy. It was doubtful to Snack, however, that a Chiss would make his residence on Coruscant.*

[Ishan Shade]

"No, I’m afraid not." came a strong, male voice from above. Standing over them, descending from a staircase as though falling from the heavens, was the owner of Shade Industries, Ishan Shade.

Shade's race, the Falleen, were reptilian, and his features did possess a vague snakelike aura. He was hairless, save for a topknot and ponytail on his skull, and though he wore extravagant robes, both the men got the impression that he was quite muscular and athletic.

Starr smiled at the sight of her master. She bowed slightly once more, gathering her composure.

The Falleen inclined his head, the picture of modesty. "Welcome Gentlemen."

[Ki-Adi Kindo]

Kindo couldn't help but stare at the exquisite array of artwork, but not because of the art itself, but the memories that came with them. Back at his home, Serenno, he kept several beautiful paintings hung on the marble walls in his quarters, which happened to be more spacious than the room they were in now. He never thought much of it till after his father passed away, and considering they were given to him by his father, they picked up great sentimental value.

He listened to Snack ask Starr a question regarding her master's race, when he heard a voice that he knew couldn't be Starr or Snack.

" No, I'm afraid not. "

Has soon has he could has he could turn around, a green figure began walking down a staircase only a few feet away. Kindo hadn't seen someone of this man's species before. He looked to be an elegant man, not only apparent by the way he was dressed, but by the manner in which he acted. Ki Adi knew more than a thing or two about elegance, after all, he was once a Count.

" Welcome Gentlemen. "

His adorned robes couldn't hide the fact that he appeared to be in great physical shape. Though he seemed to be a very neighborly individual, the Jedi Knight kept his awareness heightened. He still hadn't the faintest idea why he was there.

" Greetings, sir. The name's Ki Adi Kindo, Knight of the Greater Jedi Order. "

[Nathanial K'cansce]

*Snack fully turned his body to face the new thing that came down the stairs. His strong voice answered Snack's question. And from the color of the man-thing's skin, he told no lie. It was not a Chiss, but something that held green, almost scaly skin. At least on their faces and bald heads.

Crossing his arms in front of his chest once more, Snack bowed deeply, bending at the waist. His black hair once again fell over the front of his face, covering most of his pale facial features. Straightening himself up, he heard his dinner partner formally introduce himself to their host.*

"Knight of the Greater Jedi Order. "

*Kindo had left that part out when he first met Snack, though it was somewhat understandable. Snack had yet to introduce himself to the Jedi. That was probably for the better.

But the word, Jedi, hung in Snack's mind. His dark eyes narrowed and shot daggers towards Kindo, though they were hidden through the his tendrils of black hair. So that was the feeling of difference he had felt from Kindo. He was a Jedi from the Order, and a Knight at that. Much had changed since Snack had left the Order, that was for sure.

Snack's eyes eased up, returning to look at the reptilian royalty. For now, he'd keep his force signature as minimal as possible. Though in doing so, he would not be able to call upon the Force for some mind probing and other useless and fun activities.*

And you are...?

[Ishan Shade]

The Falleen nodded towards Kindo before turning to the larger of the two, “Ishan Shade.” His reply came quick to Snack’s question. He gave a courteous gesture to Kindo, “It honors me to have such an accomplished Jedi Knight amongst us.” Ishan gave a flawless smile.

"Thank you Starr. That will be all for now," he said pleasantly. Starr graced her exit with a bow, slipping out of the room.

“Magnificent isn’t she?” Most Human Replica Driod's had been purchased at extremely high prices by wealthy men of the galaxy for pleasures focused on self-satisfaction. Fools. Ishan had bigger plans for his personal assistant. Starr was more than a mere HRD, she was a walking assassin, capable of killing in the blink of an eye without even raising her ersatz heartbeat. Ishan had sent her out on numerous missions to deal with those who crossed him personally or his organization. He broke his thoughts from her, turning to his guests.

"And you must be Lord Snack.” Ishan extended his greeting to the Sith Master.

[Ki-Adi Kindo]

Kindo's face lit up with a smile at Ishan's compliment, for it wasn't everyday he was labeled an accomplished Jedi Knight. He watched Starr has she left the room, wondering if she did more than run small errands for her master, who seemed to hold her in very high-esteem. Everything was going fine so far, and he hoped it stayed that way.

Lord Snack, at last the name of the man he recently met was revealed. Lord, that title confused the Jedi. Why was he called that, and Snack, he'd heard that name somewhere before. Temporarily putting those thoughts aside, he got back in the conversation.

" Well it is great to meet you Ishan. I must say, you have quite a pleasant place here. "

[Nathanial K'cansce]

*Snack nodded his head and smirked in response to Ishan's statement-question.*

That I am...

*Slowly he blinked his eyes, and when he reopened his eyelids, he found himself looking at Kindo. He could tell the gears were working, but Snack was not going to give him the oil needed to produce steam.*

And that you do.

*Snack added to Kindo's compliment of the building they were in. Returning his gaze to the Falleen, the Dark Lord pondered about what he and the Jedi were doing here. That, and Snack was starved. He still had yet to eat anything, and that's all he wanted to do now.*

Your servant said you had dinner prepared? What do I owe the occasion to?

[Ishan Shade]

“A simple business opportunity.” Shade stated plainly.

“…Surely you of all people enjoy a good business venture.” Ishan's color changed slightly, a Falleen display of emotion. It quickly muted itself again. "Nevertheless, it isn't everyday that I have a Jedi Knight in my home, " Shade paused briefly, “ Or a Dark Lord of the Sith.” Ishan let a smile creep onto his face slowly, trying to judge Kindo’s reaction.

"Come, we shall eat."

[Ki-Adi Kindo]

" Or a Dark Lord of the Sith. "

Kindo's eyes grew broad has Ishan's words echoed in his mind. He hadn't expected that the man he had met a half hour ago, who appeared to be just another Coruscant resident going about his day, to be a Sith. Not just your annoying and cocky Apprentice either, but a powerful and highly-revered Lord. It seemed strange, because he hadn't felt a Force signature or even the slightest trace, and it came to him that he probably did what other darksiders did while in the precense of Jedi, cloaked it.

" Come, we shall eat. "

Despite the surprise, he remained content and decided it would be best not to confront Snack, at least not yet. Instead, he gave a forced smile and slowly trailed the Faleen. Any problem could ruin the chance of him finding out what Ishan's business propisition was. If this assignment involved working alongside a Sith Lord, things wouldn't work out hand and hand. His suspicions were now at full alert, for perhaps this business deal would turn into something he would have to stop rather than support.

" Sounds great, what are we having? "

[Nathanial K'cansce]

*Instead, someone else could offer the oil. Snack shot death rays at Ishan for letting the cat loose. The anger began to boil, but it quickly simmered down to a cool. His time with the Jedi long ago had taught him to control his anger, and that has proved to be a very useful tidbit of knowledge to wield as a 'Sith'.

And not just any Sith, but "Dark Lord of the Sith". That had a nice ring to it, and would sound even better to be thought as the One had he himself believed he was a true Sith. That was still in doubt.

Snack glanced over to Kindo, and for a single moment, saw the surprise in his face. Oh, this would be fun.

Blinking his eyes, the Dark Lord stopped his cloaking effect on himself, allowing his tainted Force Signature to be felt by all. No use in hiding what was now common knowledge.

He said no words to himself, nor to the others, as Shade led the two to the room where a table sat in the middle. On top the long table, was an assortment of many different foods, all of which smelt very appetizing. Snack waited to be told to sit. He might have been a follower of the Dark Arts, but at least he had manners.*

[Ishan Shade]

Ishan smiled as they took their positions at the table. "I assure you Mr. Kindo, you will not be disappointed." The statement was surely true. The dinner the three were about to dine on had cost the income of some of the smaller planets. Shade never got pleasure out of flaunting his wealth, for now bigger and brighter things had been opened up to the aging Falleen. Unlimited power was in a whisper's grasp. He inclined his head toward Snack, making an expansive gesture.

"Tell me Snack, what do you know about the Galatic Senate?"

It was a eerie question that carried a heavy set tone. Ishan's silent eyes slid over to Kindo, not sure of how far the Knight's loyalties were about to be tested. Most interesting things were to come.

[Nathanial K'cansce]

The Galactic Senate?

*Snack re-asked the question. He looked at the Falleen, wondering where this random question spurred from. It seemed innocent at first, but the way the other had spoken it made room for a hidden meaning.*

The Galactic Senate of old was a conglomerate of representatives and senators from the different planets, systems, and sectors throughout the known galaxy. It was riddled with corruption.

*The Dark Lord's eyes fell upon Kindo for an instant. Something about the question was not right. The senate had not been active since the early days of the New Order... and even if it had been reinstated...*

But to my knowledge, the Senate has been dead for many years. Why do you ask?